How to Increase Sebum

Sebum is oil made by sebaceous glands. It collects around hair follicles and spreads to the surrounding skin. Sebum works together with skin lipids and sweat to create what is referred to as an acid mantle. An insufficient amount of sebum makes skin susceptible to bacterial and fungal infections while too much of it can result in acne. The proper balance both protects the skin and keeps it well hydrated.

Things You'll Need

Vitamins A, B1, C, E

Chromium

Folic acid

Ginkgo biloba

L-arginine

L-tyrosine

Magnesium

Nitric acid

Selenium

Zinc

Apricots

Fruit and vegetable juices

Legumes

Liver

Nuts

Papaya

Persimmons

Potatoes

Sweet potatoes

Wheat and whole grain products

Water

Woman with long, healthy hair. (Image: puhhha/iStock/Getty Images)

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Step 1

Remove comedones like acne, blackheads, pimples and whiteheads. Blocked comedones won't allow skin ducts to release enough sebum, which can lead to acne, bacterial infections and other skin problems.

Step 2

Stimulate androgen production by increasing the effectiveness of the sebaceous glands. This can be achieved by using vitamins and supplements as well as by eating the right foods. Vitamins A, B1, C and E, chromium, folic acid, and Ginkgo biloba are believed to increase androgen. Supplements like L-arginine, L-tyrosine, magnesium, nitric acid, selenium, and zinc can help as well. Good food options include bananas, figs, and raw oysters that are believed to increase androgen production.

Raw oysters. (Image: Serge_Bertasius/iStock/Getty Images)

Step 3

Work with a physician to balance estrogen and progesterone. In some cases, hormone imbalance can affect the amount of sebum produced. Children at puberty through their teen years often produce too much, which can lead to acne. Older individuals--especially women of menopausal age and beyond--find an imbalance often leads to insufficient amounts of sebum production.

Work with physician. (Image: Medioimages/Photodisc/Valueline/Getty Images)

Step 4

Use medications that increase sebum production. These include levonorgestrel, medroxyprogesterone, phenothiazines and testosterone. Avoid medications that can affect sebum production like antiandorgens, isotretinoin and oestrogen.